Anesthesia Pre Operative Instructions

For Post Operative Instructions, click here.

Local anesthesia is always used for surgery, but you may choose any of those listed below as a supplement. Each choice requires different preparation for your safety, it is important that you read and follow the instructions carefully. If you are unclear about anything, please ask your doctor.

For all surgery, please wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing. Those receiving intravenous medication should wear shirts that have sleeves that can be easily drawn up above the elbow. Females should remove nail polish on at least one finger, and apply as little make-up as possible

Local Anesthesia - An anesthetic that you might receive for dental fillings; provides a numb feeling in the area being operated. You will be awake and recall the surgery, but there will be no discomfort.

• Have a light meal a few hours prior to your procedure
• For more extensive procedures you may wish to have someone drive you home
• Plan to rest for a few hours after surgery.

Oral Premedications - Local anesthesia (as above) or nitrous oxide (as below) may be supplemented with medication taken by mouth to produce relaxation before and during your operation.

• Take the medication at the time directed before your surgery.
• Have a light meal a few hours prior to surgery unless you are also having intravenous or general anesthesia.
• It is not safe to drive after taking sedative drugs, and you must have someone drive you to and from the office.
• Plan to rest for the remainder of the day. Do not operate power tools, machinery, etc for 24 hours after surgery.

Nitrous Oxide - also know as "laughing gas" or "sweet air". You will be relaxed and somewhat less aware of your surroundings, but recall most of the surgical event. Nitrous oxide is used in conjunction with local anesthesia, but also may be used to supplement the choices below.

• You may have a light meal up to four (4) hours prior to surgery.
• For procedures that are more extensive, you may wish to have someone drive you home.
• Plan to rest for a few hours after your surgery.

Intravenous Sedation - Medications are given through a vein in your arm or hand, which will cause total relaxation and, although you will not actually be unconscious, there will be very little recall (if any) of the events surrounding surgery.

• You may not have anything to eat or drink for six (6) hours prior to surgery. Clear liquids such as water, coffee, tea, seltzer, are permissible up until three (3) hours prior to your appointment. Beverages such as milk, milkshakes, yogurt drinks, orange or grapefruit juices are not recommended.
• For morning appointments, skip breakfast
  ¨ For afternoon appointments, eat a light breakfast six (6) hours before your appointment and skip lunch
• Take any regular medication with only enough water to get the pill down.
• You must have someone drive you home
• Plan to rest for the remainder of the day. Do not operate power tools, machinery, etc., for 24 hours after surgery.

General Anesthesia - Medications are given through a vein, which will result in a loss of consciousness and a complete lack of recall of the procedure.

• The same instruction offered above for intravenous sedation applies for general anesthesia.

Intravenous Anesthesia and General Anesthesia include local and Nitrous Oxide anesthesia

Special Instructions
Do not ignore a head or chest cold when nitrous oxide, intravenous sedation or general anesthesia is to be utilized. Call immediately if any symptoms are present as a change of appointment may be necessary. This time has been reserved for you. Please provide 24 hours notice if you are unable to keep your appointment.

It is important to advise your doctor of all medication that you take as well as any changes in your health since your last visit. Please take any medication as per your usual routine with a sip of water. If you are taking an anticoagulant such as aspirin or Coumadin please discuss the appropriate management with your medical doctor.

For Post Operative Instructions, click here.